Haiti Travel Guide

Oh, bitter-sweet Haiti! One must understand Haiti's turbulent past to appreciate its present strides in returning it to a position of prominence among the many Caribbean destinations. Originally controlled by the Spanish in the 1400's and taken over by the French in the late 1600's, Haiti then experienced an uprising by the African slaves in 1791, resulting in becoming the world's first black republic in the Western Hemisphere and an independent nation by 1804. The balance of the 19th century right up to Haiti's recent past was plagued with similar marked unrest however, relative peace prevails today and the present democratic rule shows renewed interest in reestablishing Haiti as a major player in Caribbean tourism.

Although, it has yet to be seen, the country is showing encouraging signs of revitalization and does have a great deal to offer the traveler seeking adventure, culture and history. There are also several beachfront resorts on Haiti which have reopened, many of which offer amenities and activities enjoyed at competing resorts throughout the Caribbean.

Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, occupying the western third of the island, covering nearly 11,000 square miles. It sits between Cuba and Jamaica offering a varied terrain of rain forested mountains and dry, arid plains as well as palm dotted beaches, both white-sand and black.

Port au Prince, Haiti's capital, is bustling with character and culture, the center for Haitian history and world famous Haitian art. Just up the hillside is Petionville, the country's most affluent suburb well known for its art galleries, upscale hotels and Haitian cuisine. Further up the hill from Petionville, is the prestigious Barbancourt Rum Distillery representing another fine quality of Haiti. An hour outside of Port au Prince you'll find the best, most noteworthy beaches located in the Cote des Arcadins area. Labadie, on the north coast of Haiti, is another fine area offering extreme natural beauty from rocky cliffs and rolling hills to breathtaking beaches and crystal clear waters. It's also the point of various cruise ship dockings.

Haiti is predominantly a French speaking country although English, Spanish and Creole patois are also spoken. You'll feel most at home in the urban or beachside resort areas where English is more prevalent and where the socio-economic differences are less conspicuous.

The Haitian experience isn't for everyone but for now, it is one of the more affordable Caribbean destinations offering a taste of days gone by coupled with the things to come.